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Leicester City legend Steve Walsh has been telling fans on social media he wanted Manchester United or Wolverhampton Wanderers at home on the opening day of the season, and he nearly got exactly what he wanted.

Walsh, who played in the last City side to win at Old Trafford 20 years ago when Tony Cottee scored the winner, swears he had no inside knowledge of the fixtures but was delighted when his old club were paired with United on the opening day.

Claude Puel would probably have wanted a kinder opening game but Walsh believes the challenge of facing United will get City back into the swing of things immediately.

“I have been on social media and people had been asking me who I wanted and I said I wanted either Manchester United or Wolverhampton Wanderers at home first up. I wasn’t far away,” said Walsh.

Steve Walsh is looking forward to renewing his rivalry with Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Steve Bull when Wolves visit the King Power Stadium

“It is unreal. I didn’t know, honest.

“I think he (Puel) would rather had a Watford at home or a home game at least. Manchester United away will be as tough as it gets. I am not saying we can’t beat them but it is a tough opening game.

“It is a very interesting start to the season and to get United first up is a big draw and I was quite happy to see because I think the fans will be buzzing now.

“They love going to United and it is a fixture everyone waits for. The fixtures are out and bang, it is United away. Fantastic.

“You are straight into the season. It is a good opportunity as well to make a statement.”

Walsh wanted Wolves, returning to the top flight, because it will be a chance to catch up with an old sparring partner from his playing days.

“Wolves brings back special memories,” said Walsh.

“I want to see Bully (former Wolves striker Steve Bull, who he had many tussles with during his playing days).

“I want to do something with him, and I have been calling him to give him some stick.

“Wolves are a good team and that will be tough as well. They beat us 1-0 at their place in pre-season last season and they looked very good, although it was a pre-season game.”

Leicester City's Premier League fixtures

City also face a tough Christmas period when they travel to Chelsea and then entertain Manchester City on Boxing Day, while the end of the campaign sees City travel to the Etihad Stadium and entertain both Arsenal and Chelsea.

“I hope we have plenty of points on the board come Christmas because that looks tough, and the end is difficult too, but the club, the owners and everyone will be wanting to look at a top ten spot and even look to challenge for a top six spot,” added Walsh.

“It all depends on signings and how the squad shapes up. We are making strides.

“As a player I always looked at the opening day, the Christmas fixtures and the last day, and then at my birthday, November 3, Cardiff City away.

“Now the fixtures are out it just gets you excited for the new season.”